Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu
Pick your date
Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.
September 2026
Loading live availability
Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 190 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu worth booking?
Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu is a 7-hour experience in Kathmandu, Nepal, from $17 per person. It scores 88 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 190 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 88 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (190)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $17 per person
Experience a 7-hour day trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti. Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage city, showcases remarkable medieval art and craftsmanship. On the other hand, Panauti offers a chance to appreciate both its tradi
What you get
- English-speaking tour guide
- Transport by air conditioned vehicle as per group size
About this experience
Experience a 7-hour day trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti. Bhaktapur, a UNESCO World Heritage city, showcases remarkable medieval art and craftsmanship. On the other hand, Panauti offers a chance to appreciate both its traditional architecture and natural beauty.
What's included
Included
- English-speaking tour guide
- Transport by air conditioned vehicle as per group size
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Lunch
- All Fees and Taxes
What you'll see and do
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Bhaktapur Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the historic Newar city and one of Nepal’s finest architectural complexes. It features palaces, courtyards, pagoda-style temples, and exquisite wood, stone & metal carvings that reflect centuries of craftsmanship. Once the royal palace of the Malla kings (14th–16th centuries), Bhaktapur was a powerful kingdom and cultural capital of the Kathmandu Valley for over 300 years. The city highlights includes a 55-Window Palace, the Golden Gate & Taumadhi Square with the iconic Nyatapola Temple. Despite earthquakes and restoration, it retains a strong medieval character. Narrow brick streets lead into traditional neighborhoods where daily life remains closely tied to age-old customs. Local communities are deeply rooted in agriculture and traditional crafts, pottery, woodcarving, metalwork, and painting, which remain active livelihoods. The square is a living cultural space where rituals, festivals, and everyday life blend seamlessly.
180 minutes here · Admission not included
Panauti, Nepal
Panauti was once an important commercial town in medieval times, but today it offers a calm and peaceful atmosphere. The well-preserved town is rich in history, featuring ancient temples and restored Rana-era mansions. It lies at the confluence of three rivers—Brahmayani, Roshi, and Punyabati—which is believed to be the origin of its name. Surrounding the town are beautiful rice terraces that reflect its agriculture-based lifestyle and local culture. Traditional metalwork, festivals, fairs, stupas, stone carvings, and intricately carved wooden temples further enhance its charm. A major highlight is the Indreshwor Mahadev Temple, dating back to the 12th–13th century. Built in pagoda style on a single plinth, it has three tiers, three main entrances, and detailed wooden carvings. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it remains an important religious site. Key festivals such as the 12-year Makara Mela, Swosthani Purnima, and Shivaratri attract devotees and visitors alike.
180 minutes here · Admission not included
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Kathmandu
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
Information
Duration: 7 hours No meals or drinks are include Entrance Fees are not included
Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Royal Mountain Travel
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Entrance fee is applicable to children 10 years and above
- Please be informed that, entrance fee is not included
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 190 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Food and drink
7 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
6 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Organization
2 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Traveler reviews
190 verified traveler reviews for Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great Experience :)
I did this a while back - Didn't realise my review wasn't done. Absolutely loved this day tour. My guide Dillip was brilliant. Such a great person to visit and experience Nepal with. His smile and happy persona was infectious. Had so much fun exploring these two areas. Bhaktapur is still my favourite ancient city - so beautiful to see it's still alive with people. I loved stepping out of the main city and exploring a village. The homestay lunch was delicious, the family were lovely and getting to see everyday life in the village was a great experience. I would recommend this tour any day. Loved our driver even though I can't remember her name.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued guest, Namaste, We are incredibly grateful for your kind review and deeply moved that you kept us in your thoughts even after so much time has passed. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your day exploring Bhaktapur and Panauti. It is wonderful to know that you appreciated the homestay lunch and the opportunity to experience authentic village life firsthand. Thank you for your recommendation and for choosing to travel with us. We truly appreciate your kind words and are pleased that the experience left such a positive impression. We hope to host you again in Nepal soon for another incredible adventure. Warm regards,
via Viator
Fascinating
This was a fascinating and insightful tour. The guide and driver were friendly and knowledgeable; and they made the day interesting. We learned so much from our guide who went out of her way to ensure that we could enjoy our day.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Guest, Namaste, Thank you so much for sharing your kind feedback. We are truly happy to hear that you had a fascinating and insightful experience, and that both the guide and driver helped make your day enjoyable and memorable. It is wonderful to know that you felt well taken care of and learned so much along the way. We sincerely appreciate your kind words and hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you again for another journey with us. Warm regards,
via Viator
Amazing!!!
What an amazing day! I highly recommend this experience-it is not to be missed! My guide Puspa was real treasure. She made everywhere we went come alive with her stories, knowledge and wonderful sense of humor! Our driver Shanti was a miracle worker in the chaos of the roads here. She drove so safely and perfectly! We also had an amazing lunch at the homestay house of Sarina. That was one of the best meals I have had in all Nepal. Her hospitality was beyond measure. This organization also supports women in every working capacity and I sure appreciate that. Don’t miss this experience!
Response from the operator: Dear Value Guest, Namaste, It is so wonderful to hear you had such a meaningful day! Thank you for taking the time to share these kind words about your experience in Bhaktapur and Panauti. We are incredibly proud of Puspa and Shanti; it is fantastic to know that Puspa’s storytelling brought the history to life and that Shanti provided such a safe, smooth journey through the local traffic. We will be sure to pass your praise along to them! Sharing a meal with our local homestay is often a highlight for our guests, and we are delighted you enjoyed Sarina’s hospitality and cooking as much as we do. Additionally, it is wonderful to learn that you cherished our mission to support women-it is a huge part of our identity and it means a lot to know you appreciated it. Safe travels through the rest of Nepal, and we hope to welcome you back again!
via Viator
A Great Day to explore outside Kathmandu
This is a great one day tour to immerse yourself in the culture of Nepal. Puspa my guide was lovely and told me the history behind both towns.Shambhu the driver was very good at navigating some of the bumpy roads lol. Bhaktapur was much bigger than I expected and full of surprises, I got to see woodworkers chiselling large pieces of wood making a chariot for an upcoming festival. Went to a singing bowl shop where the young lady explained and showed me the benefits of using the bowl to help pain and balance your chakras. The highlight for me was going to a pottery studio and having a go at making something on the pottery wheel which I finally did with help from one of the guys. In Panuati we went to Sarinas homestay where she cooked the best food I have had on my holiday. This woman is No 1 in Nepal in my eyes and it is worth the trip to Panuati just to eat her food! You can stay at her home in Panuati she is part of the Community homestay project. Sarina Sainju #myhomestay I highly recommend this tour its a great way to get out of Kathmandu and see other places.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Guest, Namaste, Thank you for such a detailed account of your day with us. It is so great to hear that Puspa and Shambhu made your journey smooth and insightful, navigating those trickier roads! We are so glad you got to witness the chariot making and try your hand at the pottery wheel, those are the unique local moments that make Bhaktapur so special. It is also wonderful to hear your high praise for Sarina Sainju at Panauti Community Homestay; we are so happy you loved her cooking and hospitality. We will certainly share your appreciation with the whole team and the community in Panauti. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope see you back for more local experiences soon! Best regards,
via Viator
Wonderful Experience
This is a great one day tour to immerse yourself in the culture of Nepal. Puspa my guide was lovely and told me the history behind both towns.Shambhu the driver was very good at navigating some of the bumpy roads lol. Bhaktapur was much bigger than I expected and full of surprises, I got to see woodworkers chiselling large pieces of wood making a chariot for an upcoming festival. Went to a singing bowl shop where the young lady explained and showed me the benefits of using the bowl to help pain and balance your chakras. The highlight for me was going to a pottery studio and having a go at making something on the pottery wheel which I finally did with help from one of the guys. In Panuati we went to Sarinas homestay where she cooked the best food I have had on my holiday. This woman is No 1 in Nepal in my eyes and it is worth the trip to Panuati just to eat her food! You can stay at her home in Panuati she is part of the Community homestay project. Sarina Sainju #myhomestay I highly recommend this tour its a great way to get out of Kathmandu and see other places.
Response from the operator: Dear Valued Guest, Namaste, Thank you for such a detailed account of your day with us. It is so great to hear that Puspa and Shambhu made your journey smooth and insightful, navigating those trickier roads! We are so glad you got to witness the chariot making and try your hand at the pottery wheel, those are the unique local moments that make Bhaktapur so special. It is also wonderful to hear your high praise for Sarina Sainju at Panauti Community Homestay; we are so happy you loved her cooking and hospitality. We will certainly share your appreciation with the whole team and the community in Panauti. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we hope see you back for more local experiences soon! Best regards,
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $17 to $34
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 67
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Why this scores 88
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kathmandu.
How much does Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu cost?
+
Prices start at $17 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kathmandu usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu take?
+
Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kathmandu is not rushed.
Is Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 88 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 190 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Kathmandu, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu?
+
Around 67 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kathmandu can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kathmandu and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kathmandu within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Kathmandu?
+
On Outty we rank every Kathmandu experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Private Kathmandu Sightseeing Tour | UNESCO World Heritage sites, Classic Everest Base Camp Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?
+
Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Kathmandu?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Day Trip to Bhaktapur and Panauti from Kathmandu.
Pick your date
